Bangladesh Faces Rising Non-Communicable Disease Burden Experts Call for Urgent

Health experts in Bangladesh are raising alarms over a sharp increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which now account for nearly 67% of all deaths in the country. The warning comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) releases its latest global health estimates, highlighting a similar trend across South Asia.

According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, the prevalence of diabetes among adults has risen to 14%, up from 11% five years ago. Hypertension affects nearly one in four adults, with many cases undiagnosed. Dr. Md. Shahidullah, a cardiologist at the National Heart Foundation Hospital in Dhaka, attributes this surge to rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and a shift toward processed foods high in salt, sugar, and trans fats. “We are seeing patients in their 30s and 40s with conditions that were once rare until later in life. This is a public health emergency that demands immediate policy intervention,” he said.

The government has taken some steps, including the introduction of a sugar tax on sugary drinks in 2022 and a ban on trans fats in food products, but implementation remains inconsistent. The Ministry of Health has also launched a community-based screening program for NCDs in rural areas, but coverage is limited by a shortage of trained health workers and diagnostic equipment. “The screening program is a good start, but we need to scale it up and ensure follow-up care for those diagnosed. Many patients in villages cannot afford regular medication or travel to district hospitals,” said Dr. Farzana Akhter, a public health specialist at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b).

Globally, the WHO reports that NCDs kill 41 million people each year, with 77% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The organization emphasizes that reducing salt intake, promoting physical activity, and curbing tobacco use could prevent many of these deaths. In Bangladesh, tobacco use remains a significant concern, with 35% of adults using some form of tobacco, according to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey. The government has increased tobacco taxes and expanded graphic warning labels on cigarette packs, but enforcement of sales to minors and public smoking bans is weak.

International health organizations are urging Bangladesh to adopt a more comprehensive approach. The World Bank has recommended investing in primary healthcare infrastructure and integrating NCD services into existing maternal and child health programs. The WHO is also supporting a pilot project in 10 districts to train community health workers in NCD screening and management, with plans to expand nationwide if successful.

Meanwhile, the private sector is stepping in with digital health solutions. Several startups have launched mobile apps for diabetes management and telemedicine consultations, targeting urban professionals. However, affordability and internet access remain barriers for many in rural areas.

As Bangladesh progresses toward its goal of universal health coverage by 2030, tackling NCDs is becoming a litmus test for the country’s health system. Experts warn that without sustained investment and political will, the economic toll of NCDs could undermine development gains. “We need a whole-of-society response—from food manufacturers to city planners to schools. Health cannot be the sole responsibility of the ministry; it must be everyone’s business,” said Dr. Akhter.